MSU Police and Public Safety commits to advancing women in policing

March 8, 2022

EAST LANSING, Mich. — MSU Police and Public Safety has signed the 30×30 pledge, a series of low- and no-cost actions policing agencies can take to improve representation and experiences of women in law enforcement.

The goal of the 30×30 Initiative is to increase the representation of women in recruit classes to 30 percent by 2030 and ensure police agencies are truly representative of the communities they serve. While women already encompass more than 30 percent of the MSU Police and Public Safety sworn police positions, the 30×30 Initiative will help assess the current state of the department regarding gender equity and identify factors that may drive any disparities. The initiative will also help develop and implement strategies and solutions to eliminate barriers for women in policing.

“This investment in the future of MSU Police and Public Safety helps us to better reflect and serve our diverse Spartan community,” said DEI Captain Florene McGlothian-Taylor.

While the 30×30 Initiative is focused on advancing women in policing, these principles are applicable to increasing overall demographic diversity and not just gender.

“Michigan State University is committed to increasing the number and success of women in policing leadership and across all ranks as we value diversity, equity and inclusion in hiring and promotion, and recognize their positive impact on policing practices and outcomes,” said Michigan State University Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer Jabbar Bennett.

As part of the pledge requirements, the department will focus on collecting baseline data and learning about officers’ concerns, priorities and perspectives on culture, parity and opportunities. There will be a commitment to prioritizing practices to support women in the profession, while also affirming zero tolerance for discriminatory practices or harassment. A hiring and retention process that supports women will also be prioritized.

“The 30×30 Initiative aligns with our values and vision and helps us ensure that our policies and culture intentionally support the success of women officers,” said Vice President for Public Safety and Chief of Police Marlon Lynch. “I believe diversity is a key factor for a successful police and public safety department and this initiative will assist in our diversity objectives and goals.”

For more information about the 30×30 Initiative, click here. 

----

Contact:

Dana Whyte, Communications Manager, MSU Police and Public Safety

517-282-3711, WhyteD@police.msu.edu

Inspector Chris Rozman, Public Information Officer, MSU Police and Public Safety

517-432-7940, RozmanC@police.msu.edu